We take a look at the best bits of Origins: Festival of First Nations
Origins sounds mighty ‘worthy’ and it kind of is, but more importantly, it looks incredibly interesting. It’s a festival of film, theatre and art that brings together artists from Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US, all exploring the indigenous cultures of their countries.
In July, events will kick off across London but here's a shortlist of the ones to make time for:
FILM: Our Generation @ Rich Mix
Saturday 2nd July
Did you know Australia has a National Sorry Day?
It's not the concept we have an issue with, it's the unbelievably uncreative, elementary school-style title they've given to one of the most important dates in the Australian calendar. Sorry Day is a time to remember the degradation and cruelty inflicted on the Aboriginal people. It's supposed to signal a change in race relations but Sinem Saban's beautifully chronological documentary scratches below the surface and finds a far greater understanding is still needed. There are some superb characters in this hopeful and historical true story.
FILM: Samson and Delilah @ Rich Mix
Tuesday 5th July
You'll be gutted if you miss the Tuesday of this festival. Back on Aboriginal issues, Samson and Delilah, winner of the Camera d’Or at Cannes follows two teenagers who leave their isolated community and embark on a journey of survival. Incredible acting and beautiful camera work makes this film the highlight of the festival.
THEATRE:Little Black Bastard @ Rich Mix
From 30th June
Essentially a biography on stage, Aboriginal Elder Noel Tovey tells the story of his childhood in Australia of the '30s and '40s. It's dark and full of tragedy and abuse but there's also an inherent hopefulness in the mesmerising Tovey.
ART: Current @ October Gallery
From 22nd June
A showcase of the work of six contemporary artists from Aotearoa/New Zealand and the Pacific. Each explores cultural traditions and what they mean to environmental sustainability but the works vary hugely from the frank social commentary of Andy Leleisi’uao to the more abstract and geometrical pieces from Filipe Tohi.
FILM: Seachd: The Inaccessible Pinnacle @ Rich Mix
Saturday 9th July
Here's something a little closer to home. Well, at first glance, that is. The Inaccessible Pinnacle is Angus' quest to find out how his parents died and why his grandfather's stories are so mesmerising. Expect some stunning Gaelic history and landscapes from this revealing feature film.
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